World leaders and pilgrims gathered in St. Peter’s Square on Saturday, April 26, 2025, to bid farewell to Pope Francis, who passed away at the age of 88. The emotional funeral service drew more than 250,000 attendees, significantly surpassing the Vatican's earlier estimate of 200,000. This gathering not only marked a significant moment in the lives of the attendees but also signaled the beginning of a new chapter for the Roman Catholic Church as it prepares for the selection of a new pope.
Pope Francis, the 266th pope of the Roman Catholic Church, was known for his outreach to the poor and his commitment to social justice. His burial at the Basilica of Saint Mary Major is particularly notable; he is the first pope in over a century to be buried outside the Vatican and the first to be interred at Santa Maria Maggiore in more than 300 years. The simplicity of his burial reflects his lifelong dedication to humility and service to the marginalized.
As the funeral Mass commenced, a litany of saints was sung, followed by a blessing from Eastern rite Catholic churches, which was chanted in Greek by patriarchs and priests. The atmosphere was filled with solemnity as Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re blessed the pope's coffin with incense and holy water, while the pages of the New Testament atop the coffin fluttered in the wind. This poignant moment underscored the profound impact Pope Francis had on the church and the world.
Among the notable attendees was President Trump, who stated he attended the funeral out of respect for the late pope. Trump remarked, "I just thought it was out of respect. You know, I won the Catholic vote," highlighting his relationship with the Catholic community. He added, "I think it's the first time that ever happened where a Republican won the love." His presence at the funeral further emphasized the significance of Pope Francis's legacy in the political realm.
Also in attendance was Prince William, representing his father, King Charles III. The prince's participation marked a significant duty as heir to the throne, showcasing the importance of the event on a global scale. Dressed in a dark blue suit and black tie, Prince William stood alongside British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer for a moment of silence in front of Pope Francis's sealed coffin.
As the world mourns the loss of Pope Francis, attention is turning to the future of the Catholic Church. The process of selecting a new pope will begin shortly, and the cardinal electors face the daunting task of choosing a leader who can navigate the complexities of a church divided by politics and financial challenges. The Vatican bank, which manages approximately $6 billion in assets, has faced scrutiny due to a series of corruption scandals over the years. Pope Francis had worked diligently to restore confidence in the Vatican’s finances, but the question remains whether his successor will continue these efforts.
Sister Jane Wakahiu, associate vice president for programs at the Hilton Foundation, expressed concern about the uncertainty that lies ahead. "We are in a period of uncertainty. No one can possibly be able to fill perfectly the shoes of Pope Francis," she said. The Hilton Foundation has been a significant financial supporter of Catholic initiatives, contributing roughly $28.5 million to Vatican-led projects since 2020.
During his papacy, Pope Francis created the Commissio de Donationibus pro Sancta Sede in February 2025, a committee aimed at directly fundraising for the curia to address budget shortfalls. This initiative was part of his broader strategy to engage donors as vital partners in the church's mission. However, with his passing, donors are left wondering if the new pope will embrace this approach or abandon it.
Francis's legacy is already a topic of discussion among philanthropists and church leaders. Many believe he served as a crucial moral voice on global issues, advocating for social and climate justice, as well as the rights of migrants and the poor. Alexia Kelley, president of FADICA, remarked, "He was an important global moral voice, and he will be greatly missed."
Despite the challenges facing the church, the impact of Pope Francis's leadership cannot be understated. Early in his papacy, there was a phenomenon known as the "Francis effect," which described his ability to inspire hope and action among world leaders to tackle pressing issues. However, this effect did not translate into a significant increase in church attendance.
As the Catholic Church stands at a crossroads, the next pope will inherit not only a divided church but also a complex financial landscape. The Vatican is still grappling with a deficit of 83 million euros (about $89 million) as of last year, according to Reuters. This financial reality adds another layer of urgency to the selection of a new leader, as the church seeks to stabilize its operations and maintain its global influence.
As world leaders and pilgrims paid their respects to Pope Francis, the legacy he leaves behind is one of compassion, humility, and a relentless pursuit of justice for the marginalized. His death marks the end of an era, but it also opens the door to new possibilities for the Catholic Church. The upcoming conclave will not only determine the next pope but also shape the future direction of the church in an increasingly complex world.
With the eyes of the world on the Vatican, the process of selecting a new pope promises to be both historic and consequential. The choices made in the coming weeks will resonate far beyond the walls of St. Peter's Basilica, influencing the lives of millions around the globe.
